The New York Yankees are looking for a starter. But others as well…Therefore, it´s a race to see who´s first to reel in that big fish. I feel that our intent depends on the following:
1.) Availability… Is there a pitcher the Yankees can Project as the #2 starter?.
Cole Hamels, J.A. Happ, Michael Fulmer, and Nathan Eovaldi are mentioned the most. But are they #2´s or #3´s? Or do they just give us more depth as #4?
Hamels may not be the same Hamels of the Philly days, but he is still a quality starter. He´s durable; no major issues with the arm. The record is negative (5-8) though pitching for a last place club. His ERA (4.36) is very acceptable in a hitter´s ballpark.
Cole pitched well against Cleveland and Boston, however, one thing concerns me—4 starts against Houston. Familiarity was a problem for Yu Darvish last year, but World Series experience is a definite plus. (#2; better #3)
J.A. Happ is having a very good season, he´s 10 and 6 with a ERA of 4.29, His earlier start against Boston was good, but recently was knocked out. He beat Houston, in Houston. The question is “will the Blue Jays trade him?†lefties like him are valuable. Plus, Mr. Happ is headed to the All-Star game.
Michael Fulmer… Don´t think so. Young, with a lot of talent, but a losing pitcher (3-9; 4.50 ERA) on a losing team. He didn´t fare well against first division teams. Cleveland, Seattle, and LAA all had success vs Fulmer. Not ready for NYC. (#4)
Nathan Eovaldi is coming around. Each start has been an improvement apart from his last outing. He´s 3-4 with a 4.59 ERA, excellent for Tampa Bay. Nathan had a strong outing against Seattle, and was very solid against Houston. He got ruffed up on Saturday against the Twins, but the up-side is his history with the Yankees. He could be a pleasant surprise that doesn´t cost much. (#4)
2. Brian Cashman… An excellent job as a seller, but how will he do as a buyer? The new ownership is more conservative than their famous Father/Boss. With Slim options, he may decide to ride it out. A lot will depend on the return of Tanaka—a proven play-off pitcher. Together, with Severino (#1), CC (#3) and one of the youngsters (#4), he might gamble. The tough decision awaits. His magic wand has been effective thusfar. But there is always another challenge around the corner.
Hopefully, we´re not left with the awful thought… “what if?†Opportunities don´t come everyday. It´s a tough road to the World Series. I´m sure the Washington Nationals have learned that lesson.